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Way opens for marquee stars in U-19 Origin

3 minute read

The NRL will allow the likes of Sam Walker, Tyrell Sloan, Reece Walsh and Xavier Savage to play in under-19s State of Origin under new rules.

SAM WALKER of the Roosters.
SAM WALKER of the Roosters. Picture: Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images

NRL stars Sam Walker and Tyrell Sloan will be eligible to play in the return of Under-19s State of Origin as 20-year-olds under new rules.

The NRL has confirmed the new-look junior Origin matches, which will kick off the representative weekend on Thursday, June 23 at Leichhardt Oval.

As part of new rules, each state will be able to pick two under-20s players born in 2002 with NRL contracts to feature in the clash

It means Queensland could pick from Walker, Reece Walsh or Xavier Savage while NSW have Sloan, Izack Tago and Will Penisini among those available.

"This is a chance to see the best and brightest prospects in the game," ARL Commission chairman Peter V'landys said.

"Why wouldn't we want to take the opportunity to showcase the talents of these amazing young players?

"This will be one of many new initiatives promoting the next generation of players to the fans."

NRL players who already qualify for the Under-19s level - including Joseph Suaalii - would not be counted as marquee players under the rules.

The return of the men's and women's junior Origin fixtures comes after they were not played for the past two years due to COVID-19.

It will give the NRL a four-day representative round, with women's Origin on the Friday night, Pacific Tests on the Saturday and men's Origin on the Sunday in Perth.

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